What is EN ISO 20743:2018

EN ISO 20743:2018, also known as the "European standard for antibacterial finishes on textile products," is a technical document that sets guidelines and requirements for evaluating the antimicrobial performance of treated textiles. This standard plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of antibacterial textile treatments. Let's dive into the details and understand what EN ISO 20743:2018 entails.

The Purpose of EN ISO 20743:2018

EN ISO 20743:2018 aims to provide a consistent and reliable method for measuring the antimicrobial activity of materials, such as fabrics, that have been treated with antibacterial agents. The standard specifies the laboratory testing procedures and evaluation criteria for determining the level of bacterial growth inhibition or reduction on the treated textiles.

The Testing Process

The testing process outlined in EN ISO 20743:2018 involves exposing the treated textile samples to specific strains of bacteria under controlled conditions. The samples are then assessed for bacterial growth inhibition or reduction using quantitative methods. These methods include measuring the decrease in the number of viable bacteria or evaluating the percentage of bacterial reduction compared to untreated control samples.

The standard also considers potential factors that may impact the antimicrobial performance, such as washing and wear. It provides recommendations for conducting additional testing after laundering or simulating usage to assess the durability of the antibacterial treatment.

Interpreting the Results

EN ISO 20743:2018 defines three levels of antimicrobial activity based on the bacterial reduction achieved by the treated textiles. These levels are classified as zone of inhibition, zone of reduction, and no effect. The classification helps users understand the effectiveness of the antibacterial treatment and make informed decisions about its intended application.

It is important to note that EN ISO 20743:2018 focuses solely on the antimicrobial performance of treated textiles and does not consider other safety aspects, such as skin irritation or sensitization. These factors should be evaluated separately, following relevant standards or regulations, to ensure the overall safety of the treated textile products.

In conclusion, EN ISO 20743:2018 is a vital standard that sets guidelines for determining the antimicrobial activity of treated textiles. By providing consistent testing methods, it ensures reliable evaluation of antibacterial finishes and helps users make informed decisions. To guarantee the safety and effectiveness of antibacterial treatments, compliance with this standard is essential for manufacturers, retailers, and consumers alike.